Baylor Hosts Oso Able Conference: Empowering Young Adults with Disabilities 

More than 200 educators, families, health professionals and community partners gathered at Baylor University for Oso Able: Flourishing Futures – Navigating Transitions Together, a one-day conference focused on helping young adults with disabilities prepare for education, employment, community engagement, and healthcare. 

Hosted by the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing, the event featured keynote speaker Dr. Brenda Barrio, assistant vice president for research and innovation at the University of North Texas, and a panel of self-advocates who shared personal stories about navigating the transition to adulthood. 

“This event brings together the people and programs that make a real difference in our communities,” said Kristen Padilla, director of the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing. “Flourishing happens when families, educators, employers and faith communities work together to ensure that everyone belongs.” 

Katie Laubender, who serves as the youth transition program manager for the Center, said the conference provided a much-needed space for collaboration. “Families are at the heart of every transition,” she said. “Events like Oso Able remind parents and caregivers that they are not alone — that there are partners, professionals and communities walking alongside them as their children step into adulthood.” 

Breakout sessions throughout the day highlighted practical strategies for inclusive education, community engagement, healthcare access and employment. Attendees also met with more than 30 community organizations during the Community Partner Expo, which showcased local resources supporting individuals with disabilities and their families. 

Self-advocates including Jimmy Moreno, Krissa Scott, Kenny Davis, Melissa Gutierrez, Aaron Jones, and Benjamin Morgan participated in a panel discussion moderated by Baylor faculty, offering insight into their lived experiences and the importance of belonging in everyday life.  

Dr. Brenda Barrio’s keynote address emphasized research-based practices that promote inclusion and transition success, while celebrating the partnerships between universities, schools and communities that make such work possible. 

The Oso Able conference is part of Baylor’s broader commitment to advance disability inclusion across education, employment, faith, and community life. The Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing serves as a national leader in interdisciplinary research and training, equipping professionals and communities to support individuals and families in living full, meaningful lives. 

The Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing extends a heartfelt thanks to the generous sponsors who made this year’s Oso Able Conference possible: 

• Jorge’s Cantina 

• Eric Guel Photography 

• Heart of Texas Down Syndrome Network 

• Focus Behavioral (Focus ABA Therapy) 

• Blue Bell Ice Cream 

• Bitty & Beau’s Coffee 

• Rainey & Rainey, Attorneys at Law LP 

• Wesley Woods Rehabilitation & Care Center 

• Thrive Behavioral Consulting 

• Waco Symphony 

• Award Specialties 

• Kendra Scott 

• Club Car Wash 

• Dr Pepper Museum 

• Waco Civic Theatre 

• Di Campli’s Italian Ristorante 

Their support helps create spaces where individuals with disabilities and their families can thrive — together. 
 
According to national data, one in four U.S. adults and one in six children experience disability, underscoring the need for programs like Oso Able that foster collaboration and connection.